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Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach

Creamy Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach Bliss

A creamy and comforting dish featuring orzo, roasted butternut squash, and fresh spinach, perfect for cozy dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta can swap for ditalini or rice
  • 3 cups Vegetable Broth can substitute with water
  • 2 tablespoons Butter use plant-based for vegan
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or use cream cheese
For the Roasted Veggies
  • 1 medium Butternut Squash diced
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil can use avocado oil
For Flavoring
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For the Final Touches
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated, or nutritional yeast for vegan
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach can swap for kale
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional

Equipment

  • oven
  • Large Bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Large saucepan
  • Stirring spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
  2. While the squash roasts, bring a large saucepan over medium heat. Melt butter, then add minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns lightly golden.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring it covers the orzo completely. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the orzo to cook for 10-12 minutes until tender, and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. Once the orzo is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, creating a rich, creamy texture. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts.
  5. Gently fold the roasted butternut squash into the orzo mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Check for seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if desired.
  6. Spoon the creamy orzo with roasted butternut squash and spinach into bowls, garnishing with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

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